Species

Epimedium grandiflorumLarge-flowered Barrenwort

12 other cultivars

perennial

Dark Beauty Barrenwort

Q: What zones can Dark Beauty Barrenwort grow in?

Dark Beauty Barrenwort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Q: Is Dark Beauty Barrenwort deer resistant?

Yes — Dark Beauty Barrenwort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Q: When does Dark Beauty Barrenwort bloom?

Dark Beauty Barrenwort typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Q: Does Dark Beauty Barrenwort need full sun?

Dark Beauty Barrenwort does best in part shade.

Q: Is Dark Beauty Barrenwort drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dark Beauty Barrenwort handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Beauty'

$30.00

The Story

Plant Bio

Epimedium grandiflorum is a rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial that is primarily grown as a ground cover in shady areas. Features heart-shaped, compound leaves and delicate, spurred flowers.

This cultivar is noted for its dark violet-purple flowers and its new spring foliage which emerges with a dark chocolate-purple flush before maturing to green.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate, attractive flowers and lush foliage, ideal for shaded gardens.

Good groundcover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects in shaded ecosystems.

SpeciesEpimedium grandiflorumLarge-flowered Barrenwort

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, keep soil moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Plant Delights Nursery

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$30.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-draining soil around roots for stability.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in partial shade to protect from harsh sun.
Water consistently during first growing season.
Apply mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, well-draining soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead stems
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not expose to full, harsh sunlight 🌞
Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy
Avoid heavy clay soils without proper drainage

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderUnderstory plant beneath treesGroundcover in shaded garden beds

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeJapanese painted fern Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions